“The Sabbath Variations” explores the concept of work in six new and unexpected ways, giving a 21st-century spin to the rich Talmudic tale of Shimon Bar Yochai. The great mystic emerges from a cave after more than a decade in hiding, and finds himself confounded by the worldly realm.

24/6 draws on this ancient story to create six radically new, 10-minute pieces, with influences ranging from Samuel Beckett to Lady Gaga - from a day in the life of a Japanese salaryman, to a family drama playing out in a hospital room.

Founded by Jesse Freedman, Yoni Oppenheim and Avi Soroka, 24/6 is the first of its kind – a professional Jewish theater company showcasing the work of Sabbath-observant artists. It aims to provide a space for these artists to create cutting-edge, contemporary work, featuring a talented ensemble of actors, writers, directors, dancers and puppeteers. These performances introduce the work of a new crop of young, talented Jewish playwrights, directors and actors.

Both workshop performances will be followed by a discussion of the life and legacy of Abraham Joshua Heschel, the theologian and civil rights activist who re-tells this ancient story.